Random Thought #132

Why is it that comedy is actually funny? Why do we laugh? I find it interesting that we laugh because we can identify with what is being said. We've usually either experienced it or know someone who has. Somehow it has to make a connection with something we already have a knowledge or or representation for. But its not just the linkage made by the joke that makes it funny, typically the topic is something that we would never actually bring up in real life. Everyone knows its true but nobody will bring it up. Its somehow taboo. Ever wonder what happened when a joke falls flat or isn't funny? I find 1 of 2 things happened. Either 1) the link wasn't made and so the audience has no idea what you are talking about. They haven't had that shared experience or 2) it was a little too taboo for them personally. Ever been the subject of a joke? Yeah, that's reason #2 right there. Ever been the outside guy on an inside joke? Yup, that's reason #1. I'm sure there is an entire psychology to comedy and how to come up with good laughs which would be an interesting read. I was just listening to a comedian the other day and as I was laughing, I just wondered why I was laughing and now its a blog post..HAHA!